Storytelling is well known as a tool to communicate ideas, persuade others, and impart wisdom. The stories that we tell ourselves even form what we hold as truth in our own minds.
So where can we find value in a story when it comes to learning about ourselves?
Stories from youth
We need to go back to the beginning.
Think about stories that people that knew you well as a child tell about you from back in the day. They are often told on repeat when reminiscing.
These stories are from a more transparent time, before we may have thought to hide our true natures to conform to outside pressures. They are from a time when our values were forming and our natural tendencies shone through. There are nuggets of truth to be mined from those tales.
Finding alignment
For me, a few stories come to mind.
My uncle loves to remind me how, as a child, I was most often found sitting at the table with the adults, quietly soaking in all that they were talking about while my brother and cousins were off running and playing. I loved to sit and hear others’ thoughts and perspectives on life.
Apparently I have always gravitated to being a listener.
Another story takes place around a Monopoly board. We played often, and there were times when I would have more properties and hotels on the board than my brother. Inevitably, he would land on one of them and not have money to cover the rent. I would show leniency and let him slide so as not to bankrupt him. Then, at hist first opportunity, he would take the very last dollar from my pocket when I landed on his property.
His competitive side certainly served him well through school. And my cooperative nature has helped me to be a sought after team player.
Who are you?
Listen to your own stories carefully. What your oldest friends see and repeat about you may be a clue as to what your alignment may be. Stories your siblings and parents tell about who you were and how you spent your time as a child may still have a kernel of truth today. They may point to some of your natural strengths and talents.
Share your ideas
What stories have you heard or do you tell about someone’s youth?
How well do those resonate when you think about who they are today? Are they pointing to an inner nature?
Share your thoughts in the comments or message me.
This is the third in a series of blogs exploring how we can become more aware of our own alignment, both professionally and personally. Check out the rest of the series and let me know what other approaches you have used.
Compliments – how can they help with alignment?
P.S. Knowing what your compass looks like today is a key first step in alignment. Start that adventure in the Creating My Compass course.